When Jumpsuit Patches Proclaimed Skill and Claimed Status

Pat Work's Jumpsuit Patches

Early Relative Workers wore patches on their jumpsuits to show fellow skydivers many things. In the 70's, if you wore an SCR or SCS patch, it proclaimed your RW skill and conferred status. A patch from a big-way jump declared participation in an enviable event.

For a period of time, skydivers refrained from wearing patches on their suits. This was a time of 'clicks' that dictated who did and didn't get on jumps. It mattered who you knew, not what you had already done.

Kate and Carsten Cooper-Jensen

Today's skydivers proudly wear patches of organizations they belong to, sponsors of their team or group, and their achievements in the sport. They are worn on jumpsuits, parts of their gear, and even their helmets.